Hieracium species
The entire Hieracium (hawkweed) genus is declared under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994) as a State prohibited weed. There are between 700 and 1000 species of hawkweed world-wide, but none that are native to Australia. Only two species of hawkweed (H. aurantiacum and H. praealtum) have naturalised to a limited extent in Victoria’s alpine regions. However, both H. aurantiacum and H. pilosella have been found as infestations in gardens or for sale in Victoria.
| Plants have been found for sale in nurseries and markets and in Victoria’s Alpine regions. |
What are State prohibited weeds?
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State prohibited weeds either do not occur in Victoria, or are present and can reasonably be expected to be eradicated. State prohibited weeds are the highest category of noxious weeds under the Catchment and Land Protection Act (1994). The Department of Primary Industries is responsible for the eradication of State prohibited weeds. The Victorian Government is committed to preventing the introduction of high-risk weeds into Victoria, to protect our environment and economy.
Why is it so dangerous?
Hawkweeds can grow over an extremely wide range of temperatures and can tolerate a range of conditions – gravel or acidic soils, full sun, part shade, frost or snow. In addition, hawkweeds are closely related to dandelions and sow thistles and release chemicals that inhibit the growth of other plants. Predictions based on climatic requirements and land characteristics indicate that at least H. aurantiacum and H. ramosissimum could be highly invasive in Victoria.
How to identify hawkweed
A small herb with daisy like flowers and very hairy leaves. Growth occurs from both stolons (aboveground runners) and seeds.
Hawkweeds have very hairy, green leaves to 150 mm long arranged in a rosette close to the ground. The stems contain milky sap and are covered in short, stiff hairs.
Bright orange (H. aurantiacum) or yellow daisy like flowers, 10–20 mm in diameter, that have square-ended petals and grow in clusters of 5–30 flower heads
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What should you do if you find a hawkweed plant?
If you think you have purchased or seen a hawkweed plant, please contact the Department of Primary Industries by telephoning 136 186.
| Please do not attempt to control or dispose of this weed yourself. |
